CIT - Certified Irrigation Technician System Maintenance and Repair 2

Question 1

A sprinkler head is not retracting fully after the zone turns off. The most likely cause is:

Accepted Answer

Dirt, debris, or a worn spring in the sprinkler body preventing the riser from retracting

Answer

The controller has a programming error

Answer

The water pressure is too high

Answer

The backflow preventer is malfunctioning

Question 2

During a spring startup of an irrigation system that was winterized by blowout, the technician should:

Accepted Answer

Slowly open the main water supply, allowing pipes to fill gradually, then test each zone individually for leaks and proper operation

Answer

Turn on the water full blast to test the entire system at once

Answer

Only test the first and last zones

Answer

Immediately set the controller to the summer schedule

Question 3

A zone valve is stuck open (water continues flowing even when the controller turns off the zone). What should the technician check first?

Accepted Answer

The solenoid, diaphragm, and bleed port for debris or damage

Answer

The rain sensor

Answer

The water meter for accuracy

Answer

The controller's transformer

Question 4

What is the correct method for winterizing an irrigation system by compressed air blowout?

Accepted Answer

Connect a compressor (limited to 50 PSI for PE/PVC) to the mainline after the backflow preventer and blow out each zone sequentially, starting from the farthest zone

Answer

Use the highest pressure air compressor available to ensure all water is removed

Answer

Only blow out the mainline and leave water in the laterals

Answer

Turn off the water and let the system freeze naturally

Question 5

A rotor sprinkler head is turning but the radius has decreased significantly from its original design. The most likely cause is:

Accepted Answer

Low water pressure, a worn or clogged nozzle, or debris in the filter screen

Answer

The controller's programming changed

Answer

The head is installed too deep

Answer

The common wire is broken

Question 6

When replacing a broken sprinkler head, the technician notices the replacement head sits 2 inches above grade after installation. The correct action is to:

Accepted Answer

Cut and lower the swing joint or riser to bring the top of the head flush with grade

Answer

Leave it as installed — it will settle over time

Answer

Mound soil around the head to match

Answer

Install a taller head to make it more visible